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June 7, 2011 We're tracking a record number of hate groups, antigovernment militias and other extremist factions—more than 2,000. But despite the dangers they pose, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has virtually dismantled its unit responsible for investigating homegrown extremists. Why? Because—as a former key terrorism analyst says in an exclusive interview we're publishing today—DHS bowed to political pressure from conservatives. The analyst, Daryl Johnson, describes his deep concern this way: Johnson was the principal author of a 2009 DHS report warning of a growing threat from far-right radicals. DHS disavowed the report after conservative groups and politicians complained it maligned the political right. The Department then all but stopped investigating right-wing domestic extremists. As the Washington Post reported this morning, we've asked DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano to revaluate the resources devoted to domestic extremism. We cannot afford another Oklahoma City bombing—a terrible tragedy that killed 168 men, women and children. With your support, we'll keep the pressure on the government to take right-wing terrorism seriously. More importantly, we'll remain vigilant in our efforts to expose hate groups and train law enforcement to combat extremists. Please take time to read the interview. It's important that we stay informed about these issues and spread the word.
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